Dashboard Literary Agents Success Story Interviews Rachael A Edwards

Success Story Interview - Rachael A Edwards

An Interview with Rachael A Edwards (TheStoryteller on QT) upon receiving an offer of representation from agent John Baker of Bell Lomax Moreton Agency.

08/23/2024

QT: Can you tell us a little bit about the book for which you've found representation? What inspired you to write it?: Rachael A Edwards:
The book I found representation on is a gothic YA fantasy that is LAKESEDGE meets a Victorian eseque VESPERTINE. I was inspired to write it by my love of all things Victorian gothic, my interest in the supernatural, and my wish to write a MC with my chronic illness.
QT: How long have you been writing?: Rachael A Edwards:
Over 10 years!
QT: How long have you been working on this book?: Rachael A Edwards:
Over a year now!
QT: Was there ever a time you felt like giving up, and what helped you to stay on course?: Rachael A Edwards:
Absolutely! This was my second time in the querying trenches, and it was a lot smoother this time around. My first time querying was slow and painful, and my sub experience for my debut was also quite slow compared to many! I have doubted myself often, and probably will continue to do so, but what keeps me going (other than my absolute love of writing/books) is my community. I truly wouldn't have gotten through some situations without my writing friends, who are just a warm hug of support and advice!
QT: Is this your first book?: Rachael A Edwards:
It isn't! My debut, A FATE UNWOVEN, comes out in fall 2025 with Peachtree Teen
QT: Do you have any formal writing training?: Rachael A Edwards:
I have a Masters in Creative Writing.
QT: Do you follow a writing routine or schedule?: Rachael A Edwards:
I try and write most mornings, as that's when I find my creative juices flowing the most, but due to my chronic illness, this doesn't always happen!
QT: How many times did you re-write/edit your book?: Rachael A Edwards:
My debut I rewrote/edited many, many, many, times! I rewrote/restarted THE VEIL BETWEEN a few times before it felt like the 'right' story, but I anticipate more edits to come!
QT: Did you have beta readers for your book?: Rachael A Edwards:
I have a select few friends who beta read for me that I am so so grateful for!
QT: Did you outline your book, or do you write from the hip?: Rachael A Edwards:
Outlined! Not chapter by chapter, but I have a beat sheet/general plot points document so I know my character arc and my beginning, middle and end.
QT: How long have you been querying for this book? Other books?: Rachael A Edwards:
For this book, 2 weeks. It was not a usual experience! For my debut, I was querying for over a year.
QT: About how many query letters did you send out for this book?: Rachael A Edwards:
20
QT: On what criteria did you select the agents you queried?: Rachael A Edwards:
MSWL, their current/former clients, the agency they worked for, and, as a UK based author, their links with UK editors!
QT: Did you tailor each query to the specific agent, and if so, how?: Rachael A Edwards:
Yes, depending on their MSWL!
QT: What advice would you give other writers seeking agents?: Rachael A Edwards:
It truly is such a subjective industry, but take the time to feel all the feels! It's OK to feel sad about a rejection, and happy about a request. I'd also say surround yourself with people going through, or who have been through, the same thing!